Landslip hits Keralam’s Kannur; traffic to Wayanad disrupted

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Minister Sunny Joseph and Kannur MLA T.O. Mohanan visiting the landslip-hit area at Elayavoor, Kannur, adjoining the ongoing national highway construction work on Tuesday (August 25, 2026) | Photo Credit: special arrangement

A landslip near Chekuthanthodu Road at Palchuram in Kannur district of Keralam around 9.10 a.m. on Tuesday (August 25, 2026) disrupted traffic through the ghat road, prompting authorities to divert vehicles heading to Wayanad through the Nedumpoyil-Periya ghat road.

With large quantities of soil and rocks falling onto the road, District Collector P. Vishnuraj directed officials to initiate measures to clear the debris immediately. The police, Fire and Rescue Services personnel and revenue officials reached the spot and began taking necessary measures.

As heavy rain continues in the region, authorities warned of the possibility of further landslips and urged people to exercise caution. The Collector advised visitors and vehicles not required for official purposes not to approach the landslide site.

The police have instructed vehicles that normally use the Palchuram route to take the Nedumpoyil Periya ghat road instead.

Meanwhile, several other parts of Kannur district reported rain-related incidents. The Karayangode river at Cherupuzha overflowed, inundating agricultural land. Water also entered areas around Kuppam CH Nagar, near Taliparamba, reportedly stranding children returning from a Nabidinam procession.

A landslip was also suspected at Cholamala in Moonamkunnu, Alakode, where rock, soil and mud reportedly flowed down hill and water levels in the river rose. A possible landslip in the Karnataka forest area was also reported.

At Elayavoor, a landslip occured near a national highway construction site close to residential properties. A retaining wall also collapsed, causing concern among local residents.

Minister Sunny Joseph visited the affected area and said the landslide appeared to have been caused by unscientific construction practices, calling for an expert assessment.

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